May 11 coronavirus update for businesses

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Prime minister begins first stages of easing lockdown

Boris Johnson announced the government's plan to ease lockdown restrictions. Starting today, employers who can't work from home are now being encouraged to return to work, where extra safety procedures will be in place. There is also an outline plan to reopen schools, shops and a limited number of businesses throughout June and July, depending on coronavirus statistics in the meantime.

Adam Marshall, director general of the British Chambers of Commerce, said: "Businesses share the prime minister's ambition to see more people return safely to work over the coming weeks. Companies will do everything they can to protect employees and customers, maintain social distancing and operate successfully as more sections of the economy are permitted to re-open.

"Businesses will need to see detailed plans for the phased easing of restrictions, coordinated with all nations across the UK and supported by clear guidance. It is imperative that companies have detailed advice on what will need to change in the workplace, including clarity on the use of PPE.

“Firms will also need to know that government support schemes, which have helped save millions of jobs in recent weeks, will continue for as long as they are needed so that they can plan ahead with confidence. The timing of further easing of restrictions must be guided by the public health evidence, but businesses need their practical questions answered so they can plan to restart, rebuild and renew.”

CBI praises north west business heroes

CBI North has commended regional businesses who have played their part in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic, including those manufacturing PPE.

Damian Waters, CBI North West regional director, said: "I’m incredibly proud of the support business heroes in the North West are providing to their local communities at this critical time. Here we have just a couple of examples, but there are many more.

“That’s why I’m calling on any businesses able to play a part in the fight against the pandemic to get in touch. The CBI is coordinating these much-needed efforts and helping firms to explore what they can do to make a difference. Businesses recognise the key role they can play as well, and we are working them to find practical solutions to the challenges caused by the pandemic."

Firms which would like to explore how they can help can get in touch at [email protected]

Frozen food producer supports charities

European Freeze Dry, which produces freeze dried ingredients and meals from its factory in Preston, UK has donated 250kg of freeze dried produce (equivalent to 1,250kg when rehydrated) to FareShare and The Salvation Army to distribute to families struggling to feed their families during the pandemic.

The meals, which include Spaghetti Bolognese and Vegetable Tikka, have been freeze dried, meaning that they retain their nutritional value for up to seven years. The product was surplus from a previous order and has been diverted from becoming a waste product to create 2,650 meals.

Captain Dominic Eaton, joint leader of The Salvation Army Preston said: “Being based at the heart of the Preston community means that we can get essential supplies to those most in need through our food bank and donations from local companies really help us in our work. The generous donation from European Freeze Dry will help us provide so many with much needed food at these unbelievably tough times and help us meet the growing need in a safe way to support the vulnerable in this period of national crisis.”